University of the West Indies remembers Professor Rex Nettleford

February 2, 2011, marks one year since the passing of Professor Rex Nettleford, and the long time University of the West Indies (UWI) Vice Chancellor continues to be remembered.{{more}}

February 6-11 was declared “Rex Nettleford Week” by the learning institution, and activities such as a memorial ceremony, concert and the launch of a book of tributes made to honour the Caribbean icon were organized.

Head of UWI Open Campus St Vincent Dr Adrian Fraser said Nettleford impacted the lives of persons with whom he came in contact and had a passion not only for the academics, but also cultural dynamics. Fraser explained that Nettleford meant a lot to UWI, particularly to the Open Campus where he was a resident tutor and head of the extramural department of the School of Continuing Studies.

The St Vincent Head remarked: “He had taken a keen interest in the development of the centre and lectured at the campus on a number of occasions and delivered two speeches at our annual Independence lecture, the last being in 2008.”

Meanwhile, Acting UWI Library Supervisor Samantha Williams said some of Nettleford’s publications were on display throughout the week to honor his memory and she encouraged persons to take an interest in his writings.

The Jamaican born Nettleford died of a heart attack on February 2, 2010. He was just one day shy of his 67th birthday.